The gun Evan Ebel used in a shootout with Texas sheriff's deputies was the same one used to kill Colorado prisons chief Tom Clements, the El Paso County Sheriff's Department confirmed Monday.

"The confirmation goes well beyond acknowledging the same caliber and brand of ammunition being used but rather is based on unique and often microscopic markings left on the casings at both scenes," Lt. Jeff Kramer wrote in a news release.

Ebel fired a 9mm Smith & Wesson handgun at Texas deputies during Thursday's chase and gunfight, and he died after deputies shot him in the forehead.

Investigators on Monday were hoping to learn how Ebel, who was released on mandatory parole on Jan. 28, got the gun. Authorities would not comment on the results of a trace of the weapon.

"There are no answers at this time surrounding motive, and gaining these answers could be a lengthy process for investigators," Kramer wrote in the release. He would not elaborate, citing concern about jeopardizing the pending probe.

"If other people are implicated in this crime, it is imperative we do all we can to aid in the successful prosecution of those responsible, and that starts with the integrity of the investigation."

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